[Business Manners] Trivia Quiz Useful for Work

Hand it over saying, "It’s just a small (trivial) gift."

The phrase “tsumaranai mono desu ga” has long been used to humbly express modesty toward the other person. However, in modern times it often fails to convey that feeling well, so it’s considered better to avoid using it. Instead, use expressions like “I hope it suits your taste” or “It’s just a small token,” and the like.

The place farthest from the entrance/exit

It is proper etiquette to have your boss or clients sit in the seat farthest from the entrance, known as the “upper seat.” Conversely, the person with the lowest status among those present should sit in the seat closest to the entrance, called the “lower seat.” If you are the guest, you should sit where your host directs you.

Prioritize the eulogy

When a joyful occasion and a funeral coincide, it is generally the funeral that takes precedence. Celebratory events can often be rescheduled or made up for in various ways, but a funeral—our farewell to the deceased—cannot be postponed and only happens at that moment.

Thank you for your hard work.

While “gokurousama desu” expresses appreciation for someone’s efforts, using it toward a superior is considered impolite. The phrase is typically used by superiors to subordinates or those of lower status. When offering words of appreciation to a superior, use “otsukaresama desu” instead.

30 degrees

A bow angle of 30 degrees is considered appropriate when greeting customers. This bow is called keirei. For a light greeting to superiors or acquaintances, use a 15-degree bow called eshaku, and for apologies or expressing deep gratitude, use a 45-degree bow called saikeirei.

To △△ at 〇〇 Co., Ltd.

“Onchū” is an honorific used for organizations or departments and cannot be used together with “sama,” which is an honorific for individuals. When listing a company name alongside an individual’s name, do not use “onchū”; the correct format is “XX Co., Ltd. — Mr./Ms. YY.”

I’m afraid that’s not possible.

“Itashikanemasu” is a polite business honorific that conveys “we cannot do that.” Because negative expressions can carry a negative impression, there is a trend to avoid using them.